1983 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1983 BMW 320. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1983 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 320 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1983 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 320. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 320 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
